Keeler Sumpter

A wise man once said, "There are things in life we don't want to happen but have to accept; things we don't want to know but have to learn; and people we can't live without but have to let go.'' (Author unknown)

 

 

Keeler Sumpter, Jr  was born on January 7, 1935 in Bucksport, SC to Keeler Sumpter, Sr and Lula Ackerman Sumpter.  

 

His early childhood years were fun years and he spent so many days with his beloved and loyal dog "Jack" by his side.   Keeler Jr., attended and completed his primary and secondary education at Richardson Training School in Bucksport and Whittermore High School in Conway, SC..   What a joy it was for him to become the local School bus driver when he was in High School.  Keeler met his soul-mate, Georgie McCray whom he affectionately called his "Sweetie", in School, and they were wed in holy matrimony and to their union were added three children:  Anthony, Lutrenda and Judith.

 

It was his most personal joy to spend spare time enjoying his favorite past time of fishing.   Oh, how he enjoyed going fishing and sharing that joy with others who also enjoyed this fulfilling experience.

 

Keeler was a hard worker and worked many trades. Yet, he said his life was not really complete until he accepted Christ as his personal Savior.  He was baptized at Trinity Temple SDA Church, in Newark, NJ .   He learned over time to place God first in everything he did.  He chose to become a servant leader and served his church in several capacities but was a most valuable leader as Church Deacon to his beloved Trinity Temple and Bethel SDA churches for many years.  Keller Jr. Sumpter subsequently served the Bethel SDA Church as Head Elder.

 

Keeler Jr., maintained an everlasting deep faith in God and love for his wife.  Yet, Keeler Jr., was that family member that so many could count on to help them in time of need.

 

Preceding him in death is his father Keeler Sumpter, Sr, his mother, Lula Sumpter, His brothers:  Franklin and  Leroy Sumpter, His sisters: Anestine Draggon, Mary Hyde, Thomasena Sumpter, and Edythe Karr, Rose Blair.

 

 

In addition to his wife and children cherishing his memories are his only surviving sister, Odessa Gentles, his beloved grandchildren:  Latisha Chester, Dexter Bellamy,  Jomain Bellamy, Jamar Bellamy, Jerry Bellamy, Syretta Lynn and Latteefa Gregory, sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins, and his classmates and friends, along with his beloved sisters and brothers of Bethel, Loris and Mount Olive SDA Churches. Certainly, Keeler Jr.'s endearment to the Bucksport community is a testament of one who never boasted about what he did for others.   

 

 

‘’… Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from hence forth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them’’. (Revelation 14:13)

 

Acknowledgements

The Sumpter family wishes to thank you for your kind expressions of love.  We especially want to thank the Church family, all the families and friends for their kindness.  May God Bless and Keep You All!

 

 

 

A Life Well-Lived

A life well-lived is a precious gift

Of hope and strength and grace

From someone who has made our world

A brighter, better place

It’s filled with moments sweet and sad,

With smiles and sometimes tears

With friendships formed and good times shared

And laughter through the years

A life well-lived is a legacy

Of joy and pride and pleasure

A loving lasting memory

Our grateful hearts will treasure

 

 

 

Memorial contributions may be made in honor of Keeler Sumpter to: Bethel SDA Church, Bucksport, SC 27527

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